Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Testing

This simple, non-invasive, gastrointestinal test detects bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, often referred to as BOSI or SIBO. Small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that often underlies chronic gastrointestinal symptoms of maldigestion and malabsorption, including bloating, gas, diarrhea, irregularity, and abdominal pain.

Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) can inhibit nutrient absorption and lead to the following serious health problems:

  • Altered Intestinal Permeability (Leaky Gut)
  • Carbohydrate Intolerance
  • Malabsorption
  • Malnutrition and Weight Loss
  • Anemia
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • Osteoporosis

Potential causes of small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO / BOSI):

  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Adhesions
  • Radiation Damage
  • Lymphoma

The Bacterial Overgrowth of the Small Intestine Breath Test (SIBO/BOSI) is appropriate for patients who demonstrate:

  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Unexplained abdominal symptoms, especially gas and bloating
  • The inability to tolerate sweet or starchy foods, fiber, or friendly flora supplements

Once bacterial overgrowth has been detected, intervention strategies involving diet, digestive support, probiotics and antimicrobials can be used to treat the condition. Bacterial overgrowth may manifest silently, without overt clinical signs. Patients without clear symptoms of gastrointestinal distress may benefit from SIBO testing, especially those with a history of chronic constipation, hypochlorhydria (including use of acid-blocking drugs), or maldigestion. Successful eradication of SIBO/BOSI has been shown to reduce bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in patients more effectively than many other treatments for IBS.

SIBO testing in Canada is conducted through a take-home breath test kit. This test is performed over the course of two to three hours and involves drinking a lactulose mannitol solution.

Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Testing Canada